At one time or another, most pickup owners make the decision to install a tonneau cover or truck cap in order to protect their valuables from inclement weather and thieves. But, unlike many of the aftermarket parts you might have already purchased for your truck, a truck cap is not an impulse item. Nearly all truck caps are made to order and must be professionally installed. So it's a good idea to allow a minimum of two weeks to order.
| A.R.E. truck caps and tonneau covers are custom-built for every application. In our experience, they fit perfectly and look great.
"Truck caps are not an off-the-shelf item, they are truly a custom product," said Bryan Baker, director of marketing at A.R.E., one of the leading fiberglass truck cap and tonneau cover manufacturers. "The better model caps and covers are typically made to the customer's individual specifications and to match the vehicle bed and color. In addition, a number of options are available. That means they are not a one-size-fits-all product," Bryan added.
There are many decisions to be made. In addition to exterior paint color matching, you can customize the interior as well, with windows, interior liners, screens, doors, racks, lighting, or clothing rods. Do you want to keep it utilitarian and use the bed just for hauling your gear? Then you might want a basic truck cap or a flat tonneau cover with the minimum number of features, such as security locks. If you use your truck for a camper, a cargo liner can soften the floor to help you get a better night's sleep. Adding a fabric headliner to the inside of the cap will also eliminate the problem of condensation. It is crucial to include windows with screens for ventilation if you use the truck bed to haul your hunting dog or use the truck as a camper.
| You can use the Build Your Own feature on A.R.E.'s website, then request a quote and even find a local dealer to install it.
Another important consideration is security. If you have thousands of dollars invested in work equipment or outdoor gear, you will want to make sure it's safe. Various cap manufacturers offer different locks. The best are automotive quality and utilize the same lock cylinder style as vehicle manufacturers'. Some caps also come with remote keyless entry systems.
There's a lot to think about when choosing between a tonneau cover or truck cap, as well as which features to include. A.R.E. has made the selection process much easier with the company's website. When it came time to add a cap to the '09 GMC Sierra 2500, we did exactly that. After selecting all the features wanted, you can request a quote and then find a dealer near you to do the installation. We selected Valley Camper Sales in Escondido, California, where owner Kurt Schrodt treated us like family as his crew installed the A.R.E. truck cap.
